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Is Nolasco next in line?

Perhaps the next major, multiyear signing news conference at the Orange Bowl will be for right-hander Ricky Nolasco?

The Marlins on Thursday formally announced the signing of ace Josh Johnson, who has signed a four-year, $39 million contract.

Nolasco, meanwhile, is projected to be Florida’s No. 2 starter. The right-hander recently signed a one-year, $3.8 million contract, avoiding arbitration.

After 2010, Nolasco will be entering his third and final season of arbitration. The Marlins have already spoken with Nolasco’s agent, Matt Sosnick, who also represents Johnson, about doing a multiyear deal next offseason.

The condition is if Nolasco has another solid season, the squad would be receptive to locking up the right-hander long-term.

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